Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy – Frequently Asked Questions

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy – Frequently Asked Questions

Hi there and welcome to my brief chat about pelvic floor physiotherapy. Before coming to the initial visit, many patients have a few questions about what pelvic floor physiotherapy is and how a typical session is conducted. So, I thought I would now take this opportunity to answer some of your most frequently asked questions:

1. What is pelvic floor physiotherapy?

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a special form of manual therapy that involves internal and external hands-on techniques to evaluate and treat pelvic floor muscles and overall deep core functioning.

2. Who performs pelvic floor physiotherapy?

Only physiotherapists who have taken special courses and/or training in this area can perform internal pelvic floor techniques. If you would like to know more about me and what I do, feel free to check out the following page: http://www.coratomowich.com/about-me/

3. Does my insurance cover pelvic floor physiotherapy?

Yes, if you have physiotherapy coverage as part of your extended health benefits, pelvic floor assessments and treatments are covered.

4. What conditions does pelvic floor physiotherapy treat?

Well, it is my personal opinion that, in order to prevent complications or dysfunction, everyone should have their pelvic floor assessed. Some of the most common conditions treated with this type of therapy include but are not limited to:

Incontinence or leakage

Constipation or retention

Acute or chronic pelvic pain

Pain with intercourse or insertion of a tampon / Diva Cup

Painful Bladder Syndrome / Interstitial Cystitis

Chronic Non-Bacterial Prostatitis

Sexual or erectile dysfunction

Piriformis syndrome

Sciatica

Low back or hip pain

Rectus diastasis or “Mummy Tummy”

5. What does the initial examination involve?

An initial assessment or examination will include a detailed discussion of your health history followed by an evaluation of external and internal abdominal, low back, and pelvic musculature using vaginal and/or rectal palpation techniques.

6. Do I have to have an internal examination?

No, an internal exam is not mandatory. It is possible to get a general idea of what is going on from just your health history and an external examination. An internal exam is, however, the best way to accurately determine your specific needs. Much like going to a dermatologist for a rash, it is better for diagnosis and treatment if you remove your clothes to uncover the affected area.

7. If I am pregnant, should I avoid an internal examination?

No, it is not necessary to avoid an internal examination when pregnant. If your doctor or midwife has not told you to avoid intercourse during pregnancy, an internal exam should be safe. If unsure, speak with your doctor or midwife directly prior to having an internal exam.

8. After I have my baby, how long should I wait before having an internal exam?

You should wait approximately 6-8 weeks after delivery before having an internal pelvic floor exam. This is true for vaginal deliveries and C-Section births. It is important to allow your body time to heal. During this time, you will also see spontaneous healing of a rectus diastasis, which should be checked at your follow-up appointment 6-8 weeks post-partum.

9. If I have my period, should I avoid an internal examination?

No, you do not need to cancel your appointment because of your period. Internal work can actually be quite helpful for normalizing muscle tone during your cycle as the pelvic floor can be affected by hormonal changes. If you feel uncomfortable having internal work during your period, your therapist can either proceed with only external work or you can reschedule your appointment.

10. When is it unsafe to have an internal examination?

Internal examinations and treatments should be avoided if you have:

Active hemorrhoids or infections

Rectal bleeding

Seed implants

Radiation injuries less than 6-12 weeks old

Undergone pelvic surgery less than 6 weeks ago

Undergone prolapse repair surgery less than 12 weeks ago

Been told by your doctor or midwife that you must abstain from intercourse or internal examinations during pregnancy

I hope that helps to answer at least a few of your questions… feel free to contact me if you have any other queries related to your specific needs 🙂

Disclaimer
Please note that content on this website is intended for informational purposes only, and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other health care professional. Information provided on this site is neither meant to create or substitute a patient-practitioner relationship; nor diagnose or treat a health problem, symptom or disease. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking professional advice because of something you have read on this website. Always speak with your qualified physician or other health care professional before using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.